Life has a funny way of throwing us a curveball right when we think we’ve got our stance figured out. Nobody knows that better than Michael J. Fox. Through his foundation, he’s been a beacon of light for folks navigating Parkinson’s disease, but even the strongest light can flicker. In his memoir, No Time Like the Future, Fox opens up about a time when his trademark optimism hit a brick wall. He realized that while optimism might get knocked off its high horse, gratitude is the trusty mule that stays grounded. By anchoring himself in his family, his friends, his work, and a good dose of humor, he hit on a profound truth: Gratitude makes optimism sustainable.
In the Parkinson’s community, they talk about “off times”—those tough stretches when the medicine wears off and the body just won’t cooperate. Not to downplay what Parkinson’t patients experience which is horrible, truth is, we all have “off times,” just not to the same degree, whether we’re fighting a medical battle or just trying to survive a rough Tuesday.
When I was on sabbatical, I hit more than a few of those bumpy patches myself. Without even realizing it, I reached for the exact same toolkit. I caught up with family, traded letters with old friends, and sat down with my Brothers to chew the fat about the good stuff in our lives. We didn’t ignore the hard parts; we just chose to shine a lantern on the blessings.
No matter how thick the storm clouds roll in, there’s always a bit of blue sky if you know where to look. When the wheels feel like they’re coming off, taking stock of our gifts—the people who love us, the memories we hold, and the simple everyday mercies—is what keeps us rolling forward. Hope might start the engine, but gratitude is the fuel that gets us down the road.
Webb, what a wonderful piece. Thanks for sharing it and I hope you’re well!
Thanks so much Frank. All is well here in Charlotte. W.